How to Care for a Kerosene Lamp Wick

Kerosene lamps with well-maintained wicks are safer to use.

A kerosene lamp will last a long time with adequate care. Bad maintenance can lead to an inefficient lamp or even a fire. It is important to check the wick regularly to ensure that it is in a safe state to use.

Instructions

1. Soak new wicks in kerosene before the first use. Fill the tank up to the appropriate level with kerosene, insert the wick into the chamber and assemble the lamp. Wait for the full length of the wick to become saturated with oil before you light it.

2. Turn the knob to adjust the wick to an appropriate height before lighting it. If the wick is too high, the flame will create smoke. If it is too low, the flame will not last long.

3. Check the wick for uneven edges after every use. Trim the burnt part of the wick until the edges are even again. This will ensure that the flame burns evenly the next time you light the lamp.

4. Replace the wick once a year. You may need to do this more often but it will depend on the grade of kerosene and wick you are using.

References

• Columbia Lighting Company: Maintenance, Safety, and Operating Procedures for your Oil Lamp
• Miles Stairs' Wick Shop: Care, Feeding and Restoration of Kerosene Lamp